*Everyone’s Role is Crucial in Fighting Drug Abuse: SDPO Kothibagh Yasir; Denial Among Parents, Institutions Fuels the Crisis: Expert Dr Muzaffar*
Srinagar, May 5 : The Government College for Women (GCW) Srinagar on Monday organized an awareness program titled "Substance Abuse Among Youth and Our Collective Responsibilities", drawing attention to the alarming rise of drug addiction and the critical role of families, institutions, and law enforcement in tackling the crisis.
Addressing the gathering, SDPO Kothibagh, Yasir Ahmad, stressed the need for community-wide vigilance and early intervention. “We should not throw ourselves towards destruction. Everyone’s contribution in the fight against drug abuse is crucial,” he said.
He urged parents and students to take the issue seriously. “As family friends and responsible citizens, it is our duty to raise alarms early and act before it’s too late. If someone’s sister or brother gets involved, many hesitate to speak up due to social stigma. That silence is dangerous.”
Yasir noted that while police continue to act against peddlers under the NDPS Act, prevention must begin at home. “It’s your responsibility too. Prevention starts in families and spreads through awareness.”
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Muzaffar Ahmad Khan, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, said denial remains a major barrier. “Whenever I tell parents their child is substance addicted, they immediately deny it. They believe addiction exists elsewhere but not in their home. The same is true for heads of institutions,” he said.
Dr. Khan called for openness, proactive intervention, and support systems within educational institutions and families to curb the menace.
The event witnessed active participation from students, faculty, highlighting the urgent need for united action against substance abuse.
